Guinea Conakry Art and Culture, Politics, Economy. African Art. Guinea Evolution, an African Environment. Guinea is a country that has shaped history while conserving its distinctions. Intersection of civilizations of the African Middle Ages, the country was the center of birth, the extension, and the successions of the grand West African empires. Guinea, always protective of its liberty, was the last to be colonized in West Africa and the first to recuperate its independence on 2 October, 1958. "We prefer liberty in poverty to riches in slavery" moved Africans everywhere in this historic choice affirmed to the world in August, 1958. From the coasts sprinkled with splendid beaches to the luxurious forest region to the rich and varied folklore of the gam-filled savannas of Upper Guinea across the Djolibu (Niger River) from fifteenth century fortresses to the magnificent countryside of the Futa Djallon with its micro- climate, Guinea is a country that synthesized West Africa. Guinea, rich in colors, in emotion, she is also in attractions. Fruits and vegetables ripen in the sun, without chemical products. This natural and extremely varied and exceptionally charming heritage adds an important artistic and cultural richness: the authenticity of different cultures with their songs, dances and traditions, the rich artisanal patrimony, etc.